Speaking to local farmers and supporters in Bakersfield, the president called the state’s previous water policy a “disgrace.”
“After decades of failure and delays in ensuring critical water access for the people of this state, we are determined to finally get your problem solved. As a candidate for president, I promised to help the water crisis crippling our farmers due to chronic mismanagement and misguided policies,” Trump said.
The Trump administration, Republican lawmakers, and farm and water agencies say the changes will allow for more flexibility in water deliveries.
Trump has long criticized the environmental rules governing the flow of water in California, which are meant to ensure that enough water stays in rivers and the San Francisco Bay to sustain more than a dozen endangered fish and other native species.
Supporters, mainly made up of farming groups and Central Valley politicians, have hailed Trump’s proposal as a breakthrough that would provide much-needed water to California’s agricultural industry. The plan could also boost water deliveries to Southern California urban areas.
However, critics, including environmental groups and fishing groups, say the changes could push winter-run salmon and other endangered species to the brink of extinction and could potentially spur lawsuits.
“I appreciate President Trump’s commitment to the biological opinions that support water delivery and sound infrastructure. This is an opportunity for the governor and the president to work together to support California’s farmers and families by investing in sound water projects.
“When water flows, food grows. Our farmers must have access to the water they need to ensure food security for American families.”
